The Maple Leafs: Analyzing Options As July 1st Free Agent Frenzy Begins

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Still, Pahlsson would certainly help the Maple Leafs in the faceoff and penalty kill department, though it may be cheaper for the Leafs to consider other options, or give the ball to John Mitchell and see how much further he progresses this year.

Manny Malhotra

At first glance I will get a couple "say what?" responses here.  However, if you look a little further, and you'll find Malhotra is a dependable fourth line centre who can kill penalties, and also provide veteran leadership.

A local boy who will come cheap, Malhotra is the type of player who does little things well, and even chipped in a respectable 11 goals and 35 points for Columbus last year.

Chad LaRose

Another third line grinder type player, LaRose is another one of those guys who does everything you want of a player.  He can score timely goals, hit, and fight.  

LaRose is no doubt an energy guy, and his style of play would look great on the Toronto Maple Leafs.

So that's it, that's my list.  Sorry it's a little late, and sorry it's a little shorter than last year.  

This is a list full of third line energy guys and defense, it's obvious after last season the Leafs must improve their defense and special teams, something I think very possible with healthy, reliable goaltending, and players like these in the lineup for next season.

Be sure to check out the blog all day tomorrow, as we will have live coverage and analysis of the Maple Leafs moves on free agency day.

This article is featured on the blog, live now by clicking here.  Also, keep your eyes peeled to the blog in the next few days, as we have a big announcement planned in the coming days.

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